After a record-breaking attendance of 25,000 last year, emergency response organizations from across the Edmonton region eagerly await their return to Get Ready in the Park at Hawrelak Park on Saturday, May 11. This free annual event gives Edmontonians a chance to learn how to prepare for a major emergency.

Representatives from over sixty agencies will come together to show off emergency vehicles and equipment – providing plenty to see and do for the whole family. Get up close with fire trucks and helicopters and pick up tips on emergency preparedness.

STARS Air Ambulance

The City’s Office of Emergency Management hosts Get Ready in the Park as part of Emergency Preparedness Week. Each year, during the first full week of May, Canadians are encouraged to evaluate their knowledge and access to emergency resources. The theme of this year’s event is “Be Emergency Ready.” If an emergency happens in your community, emergency responders may not be able to reach everyone right away. Individuals should be able to look after themselves and their loved ones for a minimum of 72 hours.

“Get Ready in the Park aims to bridge the gap between emergency responders and the public,” explained Deputy Fire Chief Rob Squire, who heads up the City’s Office of Emergency Management. “The event is as fun as it is informative, and it allows individuals and families to speak with local emergency responders in a comfortable and approachable setting. It’s always great to see the children light up when they meet real-life superheroes.”

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services

The event takes place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.. Due to limited parking, ETS will provide a free shuttle service to Hawrelak Park from Windsor Car Park and Emily Murphy Park between 7 a.m. – 3:55 p.m. Buses will run at 20 minute intervals from Windsor Car Park.